I like to read books (yeah, imagine that) and one of my favorite genres is dystopian-like books- you know, end of the world, survival, etc and one thing that really strikes me with these books is the bartering.
You have something I need, what do I have that you need mentality.
There is really no price or dollar amount value placed on any one item; it's all about need (not want) and possible survival.
What if that's how we bought things? If that was how we got our goods? Who places the value on the item(s)? The receiver? the giver?
Interesting concept to me...
Yes! Value is so subjective eh. We are so used to corporations dictating the price and driving demand through marketing to our egos. We are notoriously horrible at falling for that kind of stuff and having no clue what the risks really are. But when we start to look after ourselves, our 'needs' are suddenly more clear and easier to work out. The want's tend to go by the wayside when we start getting real with life. Even with barter we have to be careful. Something that I have may not be worth much to me but may be life or death for you. Does that mean I want an arm or leg from you or do I give it to you instead?
That is where my character starts to show as greed would dictate I get as much as I can due to your situation, OR I express kindness and love by giving it too you as it does not 'cost' me anything.
I believe this is where your poker face comes in. Just like haggling prices now. Don't let the other guy know how much you need it. But if that were to fail, then you have to do what's best for you, your family and future.
Ya, my comment was more for the guy holding what is needed by others. If I don't need it and others do, it would be violence against others to hold onto it demanding more than the value it holds for myself.